The Emerald Isle is steeped in mythical beauty, with rich and varied landscapes, green pastures, valleys, lakes and rivers, misty bogs and white sand beaches. Ben Dark had the time of his life and even made a new, four-legged friend.
Hans and Julia Keuhnle live on a farm with pigs, sheep, goats, llamas, dogs, donkeys and miniature horses. They run horse-drawn caravan tours which are the relaxing way to travel between rural farmlands. The horses are from Dublin coal yards and are experienced and suitable for their new jobs.
The first night is spent on the Keuhnle property in your van and in the morning you meet your horse — in Ben's case his brand-new friend Doof — and learn about looking after it, harnessing and driving. Then you are set free in the beautiful Irish midlands.
The route is planned and meanders through County Laois' quiet country roads with eight stopover points, which may be B&Bs or rustic farmhouses.
Location
Out of Dublin, Ireland's capital.
Cost
Kilvahan Horse-Drawn Caravans cost around $1188 a week for up to four adults. Guidebook and the food for horses are included. The second week is $990. Day and weekend trips are available. Fixed stops are arranged and other breaks can be added for an extra cost.
Emirates has flights to London. For the most up-to-date fares, call them on 1300 303 707 or log on to www.emirates.com/getaway.
Prices correct at April 16, 2009.
For further information
Kilvahan Horse-Drawn Caravans
Tullibards Stud
Coolrain
County Laois
Ireland
Ph: +353 57 873 5178
Fax: +353 57 873 5155
www.horsedrawncaravans.com
kilvahan@eircom.net
Visas: Australian travellers do not require a visa to enter Ireland.
Electricity: 220V/50Hz with three-pin plugs.
Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time.
Currency: The euro.
International dialling code: +353.
